The Sarnia Sting open up the 2016-2017 campaign Wednesday night against last year's Memorial Cup champs, the London Knights.
The Sting will make their season debut without nine regulars, who are away at NHL camps.
General Manager Nick Sinclair says its a good opportunity for some of the guys still battling for spots.
"Until guys get back there is going to be a great opportunity for certain guys in the early part of the season, and we're looking for guys to make the most of it."
Some of the guys looking to stick with the club include Sarnia natives Brock Perry and Franco Sproviero, who both saw time with the Sting as call ups last season.
London will be in a similar situation, with 16 players invited to NHL camps they will only dress three players from last year's playoff roster, Chandler Yakimowicz, Robert Thomas and Evan Bouchard.
Earlier this week, Sarnia acquired Jaden Lindo from Owen Sound for a fourth round draft pick.
Sinclair says the overage forward will add a ton of experience up front.
"He's going into his fifth year, I've been watching him since his minor midget year," says Sinclair. "He's a big body kid that plays a heavy game that's not fun to play against. He's shown he has the ability to put the puck in the net as well, and we're hoping he can build on a strong season last year.
Sinclair expects Lindo to have a positive impact in the Sting dressing room.
Sarnia hosts Lindo's former team, the Owen Sound Attack, Friday night at the Progressive Auto Sales Arena.
